Grandma’s Secret Poppy Seed Rolls

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Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

For the Poppy Seed Filling:

  • 1 cup poppy seeds
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)
  • Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional, for a citrus flavor)

For Brushing:

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

  1. Activate the Yeast:
    • In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix the Dough:
    • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract (if using), and the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough:
    • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
  4. First Rise:
    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Poppy Seed Filling:

  1. Grind the Poppy Seeds:
    • Using a spice grinder, coffee grinder, or blender, grind the poppy seeds until they are fine. This releases their natural oils and enhances the flavor.
  2. Make the Filling:
    • In a small saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, honey, and butter. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts. Stir in the ground poppy seeds, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and citrus zest. Cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.

3. Assemble the Rolls:

  1. Roll Out the Dough:
    • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
  2. Spread the Filling:
    • Evenly spread half of the poppy seed filling over each dough rectangle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
  3. Roll the Dough:
    • Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the edges to seal the seam. Repeat with the second portion of dough.
  4. Second Rise:
    • Place the rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.

4. Bake the Rolls:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Egg Wash:
    • Brush the rolls with the beaten egg to give them a shiny, golden crust.
  3. Bake:
    • Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.

5. Serve:

  1. Cool and Slice:
    • Let the rolls cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. You can dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet finish, if desired.
  2. Enjoy:
    • Serve warm or at room temperature. These rolls are perfect with a cup of coffee or tea!

Tips:

  • Storing: You can store these poppy seed rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the dough and filling the night before, then assemble and let them rise in the fridge overnight for a morning bake.

These Grandma’s Secret Poppy Seed Rolls are irresistibly soft, sweet, and full of flavor, perfect for a nostalgic treat!

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